Grappling Champ Kade Ruotolo Reveals Conversation With Demetrious Johnson Before MMA Debut at ONE 167- “No-Gi”

Reigning ONE Lightweight Submission Grappling World Champion Kade Ruotolo, who signed with the promotion alongside his brother Tye Ruoloto, who is a welterweight Submission Grappling World Champion, is set to make his MMA debut at ONE 167 against Blake Cooper. In a recent interview, Kade Ruotolo revealed a conversation with MMA legend Demetrious Johnson that proved pivotal in his decision to pursue mixed martial arts. Johnson’s mentorship helped Ruotolo better understand the sport, ultimately sparking his switch to MMA.

A flyweight king in ONE Championship now, Demetrious “Mighty Mouse” Johnson, one of MMA’s all-time pound-for-pound greats, left the UFC after an impressive run. Meanwhile, this proximity to a well-rounded MMA legend likely played a role in Kade Ruotolo’s decision to explore mixed martial arts. In his latest interview with Karyn Bryant, Kade Ruotolo revealed his preference for no-gi-grappling, though he emphasized his enjoyment of both styles.

“You know, I was just talking with ‘Mighty Mouse’ the other day, and it was interesting…” Interestingly, Demetrious Johnson admitted a preference for gi. Kade Ruotolo quoted Johnson, “He said, ‘I think because I’m so involved with MMA life and watching the no-gi scene, I just like to watch gi Jiu Jitsu, to be honest. It’s not that I don’t like your guy’s no-gi, but every time I watch you guys in the gi, I’m definitely tuning in.'”

Such praise from Demetrious Johnson, a master of striking, wrestling, and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, definitely pleased Ruotolo. It surely bodes well for his future, and seeing Johnson’s appreciation only heightens Ruotolo’s anticipation for his MMA debut.

Kade Ruotolo is eager to showcase his mettle at ONE 167

With his first professional MMA debut just days away, Kade Ruotolo vibrates with anticipation. The 21-year-old submission grappling prodigy has long hinted at this transition, diligently honing his striking skills behind the scenes. Now, he’s eager to showcase his complete skill set to the fans inside the ONE Championship Circle.

In a recent interview, Kade Ruotolo couldn’t contain his excitement for his upcoming fight. He acknowledged his deep love for Jiu-Jitsu, a martial art that runs through his veins. However, MMA presents a fresh challenge, a chance to unleash a different kind of exhilarating fury. He perfectly captured his feelings, stating, “It’s hard to almost explain it. I’m just extremely excited and excited to show the world what I can do.” 

It remains to be seen whether Kade Ruotolo can maintain momentum when he faces his opponent, Blake Copper, at ONE 167: Tawanchai vs. Nattawut 2. Who do you think will win the fight, Ruotolo or Cooper? Let us know in the comments below.